Celtic Slavery Unearthed in France

Archaeologists in Allonne, France uncovered five pairs of iron shackles dating back 2,300 years, suggesting the settlement was a center for Celtic slave trade. The findings, revealed by France’s National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research, indicate a hierarchical social structure with dominant and subjugated groups.

The site, established in the 3rd century BCE, housed specialized craftspeople including blacksmiths and metalworkers. The shackles, wrist and ankle restraints, are rare for the period and offer new insight into a previously obscured aspect of life in pre-Roman Gaul.

Researchers believe the small diameter of some shackles suggests they may have been used on women or children, while the ankle restraints weighed over one kilogram each. The discovery of a religious sanctuary with intentionally damaged offerings alongside the shackles points to complex ritual practices. Analysis of hundreds of coins found at the site reveals many were deliberately defaced, likely as part of a dedication to the gods.